Squad Power Manager for Security Force Assistance Brigades

Protonex Technology Corporation, a subsidiary of Ballard Power Systems, announced on 26 March that it has received a follow-on order valued at $1.9 million to supply its SPM-622 Squad Power Manager kits to support the US Army’s Security Force Assistance Brigades.

The rugged, compact SPM-622, of which over 5,000 units have so far been delivered to US and NATO forces, weighs less than 1lb and enables users to optimize power management for multiple devices, including portable radios, GPS systems, medical instruments, EOD equipment and tablet/laptop computers. It can draw power from any source, including solar energy, batteries, vehicles, AC or scavenged power, in order to power equipment or recharge batteries. The company highlights as deployment-driven benefits:
• Dependable power for more than 100 electronic devices currently used by troops;
• Lightened load for troops in the field by reducing their battery burden;
• Reduction in battery logistical support requirements; and
• Increased energy flexibility for troops operating in austere environments.

“This follow-on order through the Program Executive Office (PEO) – Soldier supports the mission of the US Army’s Security Force Assistance Brigades,” commented Protonex Director of Military Sales, Ray Summers. “The SFAB’s work is critical in supporting partner training in austere environments and the US Army’s focus on these field forces is contributing to the growing demand for power management solutions.”